Grim energy warning issued as risk of electricity shortages looms

A new report is warning of electricity shortages in Victoria from as early as 2026.

The report, which will be released by the Australian Energy Market Operator today, warns homes and businesses in Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland are at risk of electricity shortages in the coming years.

The threat comes as closures of several coal-fired power stations loom and amid delays building renewable energy projects, gas plants and transmission upgrades to replace them.

Gaps in the Victorian market may begin to emerge from 2026 when two gas fired power stations in South Australia are due to close.

All states on the grid are on track to breach their reliability standards from 2027.

The report calling for “urgent and ongoing” investment in renewable energy, long duration storage and transmission.